Glasgow guide
The city of Glasgow resides on the banks of the River Clyde, and is a newly emerging city-tourism hotspot. The largest city in Scotland and the 3rd largest in the UK, Glasgow has something for everyone. The city is brimming with splendid architecture, from Victorian to neo-gothic to art nouveau. Start off at Georges Square and have a wander around the compact city centre, laid out in easy to traverse grid format. Argyle, Sauchiehall and Buchanan streets offer world class shopping opportunities, and being that their combined length is over 2 miles, you’ll need to stop off for a bite to eat. Glasgow also excels in the gastronomy department; cuisine from all over the world can be enjoyed, aswell as local fare such as haggis for the more brave hearted. Nightlife is also something not to be missed in Glasgow; the city has one of the largest student populations in the UK, and there is a wealth of pubs and clubs with music to suit all tastes.
Latest reviews of Glasgow
I loved Glasgow, even though the weather was touch and go throughout my stay and I saw a lot of rain. It didn't really matter though as there are lots of things to do indoors in the city. Glasgow is a pretty cheap place to stay and the most interesting museums don't charge an admission fee....more I loved Glasgow, even though the weather was touch and go throughout my stay and I saw a lot of rain. It didn't really matter though as there are lots of things to do indoors in the city. Glasgow is a pretty cheap place to stay and the most interesting museums don't charge an admission fee. There's lots of fantastic shopping too, especially around Buchanan Street and Sauchiehall Street. The variety of restaurants and coffee shops is quite impressive, with lots of places on Ashton Lane and around the Merchant city area too. In terms of nightlife, we mostly stuck to the West End and city centre where there's a great selection of places, from bars to live music venues. On top of that, Glasgow is really easy to get around. Most of the main attractions are either within walking distance of the city centre or on the subway network, which has 2 lines and is very easy to follow.close
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by becca
– posted on Oct 16, 2008
Glasgow is such a great, often overlooked city! Since it\'s so near to Edinburgh it often takes a backseat, but it\'s really beautiful. It also has many public museums, all of which are free. The museums aren\'t amazing, but who\'d pass up free? It\'s also a great...more Glasgow is such a great, often overlooked city! Since it\'s so near to Edinburgh it often takes a backseat, but it\'s really beautiful. It also has many public museums, all of which are free. The museums aren\'t amazing, but who\'d pass up free? It\'s also a great place to just walk around. It\'s built on several hills, so you can get great views from lots of places. Plus, the architecture of the buildings is enough to hold your attention.close
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by lauracsmith7163
– posted on May 15, 2008
Not a great deal to see in Glasgow really... We were struggling after a day and decided to do the bus tour... which was ok, but generally seemed like they were grasping at straws. Don;t get me wrong. Glasgow would be a great place to LIVE, but as a tourism destination it was a bit on the dull...more Not a great deal to see in Glasgow really... We were struggling after a day and decided to do the bus tour... which was ok, but generally seemed like they were grasping at straws. Don;t get me wrong. Glasgow would be a great place to LIVE, but as a tourism destination it was a bit on the dull side. The shopping was amazing though!!close
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by emsyjean
– posted on Mar 27, 2008
Glasgow doesn't have the beauty of Edinburgh but the people more than make up for it. They are very friendly, helpfull and out for a bit of fun. They speak their mind and don't stand on ceremony. The city has a very strong Victorian heritage that it is justly proud of - some fine public buildings...more Glasgow doesn't have the beauty of Edinburgh but the people more than make up for it. They are very friendly, helpfull and out for a bit of fun. They speak their mind and don't stand on ceremony. The city has a very strong Victorian heritage that it is justly proud of - some fine public buildings throughout the city. The shopping district is one of the best I've been to outside London (although the Italian Centre, specialising in Italian fashion is in my view vastly overpriced) and the city is reasonably easy to get around. The metro is sort of on a mini-scale and looks like an out-of-place dinky toy, which gives it a charm all of its own, but if you're over 5'8" (173cm) find a seat or you'll spend the ride bent double LOL! Taxis at night can be a bit scarce, however, which is a pain. I can honestly say as well that some of the best meals I've had in the UK I've had here.close
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by Donal
– posted on Aug 9, 2007
I've only been to Glasgow once but would hope to get back soon. I thought it was great, the architecture is amazing to look at. The bars were really cool, and a good mix of bars too. We rented an apartment when there and had take away's etc so didn't eat out much. It is cheap though, a night out...more I've only been to Glasgow once but would hope to get back soon. I thought it was great, the architecture is amazing to look at. The bars were really cool, and a good mix of bars too. We rented an apartment when there and had take away's etc so didn't eat out much. It is cheap though, a night out doesn't cost much and they have a lot of special offers on drinks. The other thing I was surprised with was the shopping in Glasgow, plenty to keep you going for a weekend.close
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by amy
– posted on May 2, 2007
I'm biased, because I lived there for 6 years, but Glasgow's pretty much the best city to party in the UK (yeah, take that, London). It's big enough to have proper venues and entertainment, yet compact enough to be able to reach any part of the city quickly and without breaking the...more I'm biased, because I lived there for 6 years, but Glasgow's pretty much the best city to party in the UK (yeah, take that, London). It's big enough to have proper venues and entertainment, yet compact enough to be able to reach any part of the city quickly and without breaking the bank. It's steeped in culture and history and a great starting / ending point for excursions to the coast or the highlands. Mind you, the weather's pretty useless most of the year, so pack warm.close
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by larsb893
– posted on Mar 8, 2007
Glasgow well and truly is the one of the finest cities i have visited in a long time!!! very friendly and everything that you coul wish for!! any vegetarians/vegans must visit mono bar in the salt market area of the city and for a night out get yourselves to the west end it is fantastic!!! enjpoy...more Glasgow well and truly is the one of the finest cities i have visited in a long time!!! very friendly and everything that you coul wish for!! any vegetarians/vegans must visit mono bar in the salt market area of the city and for a night out get yourselves to the west end it is fantastic!!! enjpoy and please take me with you !!!:)close
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by nicii2
– posted on Mar 2, 2007
Cheap shopping was not an option and it was also impossible to find a cheezy gift store. There were tons of fairly cheap taxis but the buses were confusing. It rained a lot but it was fairly warm for January! And it seemed as though there weren't too many sights. 2 full days was just enough...more Cheap shopping was not an option and it was also impossible to find a cheezy gift store. There were tons of fairly cheap taxis but the buses were confusing. It rained a lot but it was fairly warm for January! And it seemed as though there weren't too many sights. 2 full days was just enough time without being bored.close
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by sampa2256
– posted on Jan 27, 2007
The Hostel was different from any other i have ever stayed in.It was lively and had clean facilities,I didn't like the kitchen because it was in the Basement and was a bit chlostraphobic. HOSTEL a bit difficult to locate, apart from that it was a clean,lively Youth Hostel that I would...more The Hostel was different from any other i have ever stayed in.It was lively and had clean facilities,I didn't like the kitchen because it was in the Basement and was a bit chlostraphobic. HOSTEL a bit difficult to locate, apart from that it was a clean,lively Youth Hostel that I would recommend to backpackers.close
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by Helenming
– posted on Jan 3, 2007
It's Scotland in December, so the weather is kind of miserable, but you can handle it. I thoght there was a lot to do there, and things stay open a bit later than in Edinburgh. I didn't really find that many great restaurants though. There are a ton of bars, good luck trying to get to...more It's Scotland in December, so the weather is kind of miserable, but you can handle it. I thoght there was a lot to do there, and things stay open a bit later than in Edinburgh. I didn't really find that many great restaurants though. There are a ton of bars, good luck trying to get to them all!close
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by cherubro
– posted on Dec 27, 2006
Top Rated Glasgow Places to Stay
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Argyll Hotel 86%
I really enjoyed my stay at this special and cosy hotel! It is very cosy indeed and the staff there are really friendly! It is definitely like taking your home with you!!! Thank you. Tania
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by angelta
– posted on Nov 2005
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Artto Hotel (Central) 86%
Overall we had a lovely stay with at Artto hotel, very clean, professional and friendly staff, centrally located, lovely modern double room. Will definately stay again and good value for money too.
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by patrickriordan5796
– posted on Nov 2008
1As good a standard of room as any of the bigger more expensive hotel chains, and the bed was huge! Directly opposite central stations and adjacent bars, so a little noise from the street at night, but not enough to bother me.
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by amylouisefarrell5889
– posted on Sep 2008
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Top Rated Glasgow Restaurants
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The Ubiquitous Chip100%
What?
Traditional Scottish food.Where?
In West End, near Byres Road.Anything Else?
This restaurant, opened in 1971, serves a wide range of dishes using Scottish ingredients. It has its own bar and roof terrace, as well as new mezzanine dining area. 2 or 3 course specials are available.
Any restaurant with such a weird name gets my vote! But the name aside, this is a local institution and it is well worth a visit! The place has a full restaurant offering excellent Scottish dishes, as well as a more laid-back brasserie section offering bistro dishes, but again with a Scottish theme. The place is very popular so reservation recommend!
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by Donal
– posted on Oct 2007
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Oshi100%
What?
Japanese and European CuisineWhere?
Near the Buchanan Street SPT Subway
Oshi is a contemporary restaurant in Glasgow's city centre offering a fusion menu of Japanese and European food. I have been there on several occasions and have never disliked even a single dish. The food is prepared to a very high standard, the staff are friendly and helpful and the environment is very relaxing. As my dining companion put it last time we were...
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by wombatjelly
– posted on Jun 2008
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Beanscene100%
What?
CaféWhere?
Beside the University of Glasgow
There are a few different Beanscenes in Glasgow, and the one I ate at was in the West End. It was pretty busy when we were there and seems like a really popular spot, especially with a younger crowd. The prices are really reasonable and there's a good selection of stuff on the menu. I had a huge plate of nachos and they were absolutely delicious. Service was...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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DiMaggio’s80%
What?
Italian and American CuisineWhere?
Located near Princes SquareAnything Else?
The restaurant has been in business for over 25 years and dining in Di Maggio's has become a relaxed affair with no set rules. The menu is a range of Italian and American cuisine delivered at a modest price.
Cheap and cheerful, DiMaggio's is part of a popular chain across the city. I went to the one in the Merchant City area of the city centre and had a huge bowl of pasta. There are lots of Italian dishes on the menu, as well burgers, seafood and traditional Scottish dishes. Prices were low and the staff were very friendly. It's really big inside too so there...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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Bouzy Rouge80%
What?
A restaurant serving international cuisine.Where?
Short walk from Buchanan Street.Anything Else?
Using Scottish ingredients, this restaurant offers a great selection of food. It also provides a pre-theatre menu, as well as good value lunch specials.
I went for lunch to this restaurant one lunchtime in Glasgow and it was so good I went back the next day. Very good French cooking, nice atmosphere and friendly staff. Highly recommended. A little on the pricey side for Glasgow, but well worth it in my view.
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by Donal
– posted on Sep 2007
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Top Rated Glasgow Attractions
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Glasgow Science Centre100%
What?
Science and Technology CenterWhere?
Located on the riverfrontAnything Else?
This center presents concepts of science and technology in unique and inspiring ways. Their mission is to promote Science and Technology through thought provoking, fun and exciting experiences that inspire all to explore and understand the world.
Glasgow's Science Centre is a lot of fun and has hundreds of different exhibits. Many of these are interactive. I really enjoyed the stringless harp and the machine you can make sound like lots of different musical instruments. We went on a Saturday during the River Festival and admission was reduced to only £2 which was great. As a result, it was packed with...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum100%
What?
Art Gallery and MuseumWhere?
Located near the Kelvinhall Underground StationAnything Else?
The uniqueness of this gallery is backed up by the fact it is the largest civic museum and art gallery in the UK and contains works of international importance. It is also the most visited museum in Scotland and sixth in the UK.
The Kelvingrove is a huge museum and you could spend hours here without any problem. I found the Conflict and Consequence exhibit fascinating; it included lots of different styles of swords and armour. Throughout the Kelvingrove, there are many works of art on show, with the Salvador Dali painting 'Christ of St. John of the Cross' probably getting the most...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art80%
What?
Art GalleryWhere?
Near the Princes SquareAnything Else?
This is the second most visited contemporary gallery outside of London city and offers a large programme of workshops and temporary exhibitions. The gallery has been open since 1996 and is located in a beautiful building in the heart of Glasgow
I always enjoy modern art museums and the Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art was no exception. It's in the city centre in an 18th century building. Inside it's all modern though, with lots of sleek decoration and white walls. The art is cool too, ranging from interesting to absolutely baffling. Pieces by Scottish natives are included in the museum's collection...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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St. Mungo’s Museum of Religious Life and Art80%
What?
Museum of Religious Life and ArtWhere?
Near the University of Strathclyde
I really didn't expect to enjoy St. Mungo's museum as much as I did. It was really fascinating though, giving a look at various different religions across the world like Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity. The highlight of the whole place for me was the Mexican dancing skeleton. It's awesome. There's a Zen Garden here too, and it's a good...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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Scotland Street School Museum80%
What?
Museum
After seeing some of Charles Rennie Mackintosh's work in the Kelvingrove, I decided to go to the Scotland Street School Museum as he designed the building. It's a pretty cool place, interesting both in terms of architecture and also because of all the different exhibits inside, charting school life in Scotland. We had a lot of fun trying out the hopscotch...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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Top Rated Glasgow Bars
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King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut100%
What?
Concert VenueWhere?
Located in the center of GlasgowAnything Else?
This is one of Glasgows leading concert venues and is know for new and upcoming bands. It has been in existance for over 12 years and in that time has hosted the first Scottish gigs for Beck, Crowded House and The Strokes.
King Tut's Wah Wah Hut was my favourite bar in Glasgow. It's got a great atmosphere and drinks are cheap. The music is loud and generally of the rock or indie persuasion. This is one of the best live music venues in Glasgow too and on gig nights it gets especially lively. Kin Tut's also runs this really cool promotion where aspiring musicians can drop in their...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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Radio100%
What?
BarWhere?
Located beside the University of Glasgow
Radio is a really funky bar on Ashton Lane in the West End. When we walked in, they were playing the Beatles so I knew I was going to enjoy myself there. The music selection is great and the place is small enough so there's a cool atmosphere. It was early when we got there so it wasn't all that crowded but it definitely picked up after a short while. There are...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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Arta80%
What?
Restaurant serving European cuisine.Where?
East End, in the Trongate area.Anything Else?
This restaurant hosts murder mystery dinners, as well as other special events. It offers a wide range of dishes including pasta, pizza, tapas and seafood. A private dining room is available.
Trendy bar with good music and nice decor. Bar upstairs is nicer than the club downstairs.
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by niamh
– posted on Apr 2007
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Curlers80%
Glasgow has a really big student population and this is really apparent in a place like Curlers. It has a jukebox, a pool table and lots of places to sit. The staff are really friendly and service was fast. As the place is a student favourite, drinks are cheap and there are lots of special offers too. According to the staff, it's the cheapest bar in the West...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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Oran Mór80%
What?
Event VenueWhere?
Near the University of Glasgow
Probably the best place see live music in Glasgow, this venue is pretty intimate and in a great location in the West End. It's located in a converted church and inside there are lots of really cool murals on the walls and ceilings. There's also a large whiskey bar serving lots of different varieties. The staff here were quick and friendly, and there are lots...
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by becca
– posted on Oct 2008
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